Cooperative Family Law
Ending a marriage or creating a parenting plan doesn't have to be stressful, lengthy, or expensive. We pioneered a better way.
A Kinder, Faster Path Through Divorce and Family Transitions
Cooperative Family Law is an approach to divorce and family matters that Misty Gaubatz and Ashley Hurlbert co-developed right here in Western Montana. Rather than pitting spouses against each other in drawn-out adversarial proceedings, the cooperative approach brings both parties and their attorneys together in a structured, solution-focused process.
Both parties retain their own attorney, giving each person independent legal counsel and protection, while everyone works toward resolution together. You and your spouse control the decisions about your children, assets, and futures. The attorneys guide and protect, but don't inflame.
The result: less stress, shorter timelines, lower cost, and outcomes that both parties can actually live with. A&M Law has successfully helped dozens of couples peacefully end their marriages and create workable parenting plans throughout Missoula, the Bitterroot Valley, and Western Montana.
You Control the Outcome
Both parties retain final say over decisions about children, assets, and the future, not a judge.
Lower Cost
Because the process is cooperative rather than combative, legal fees are significantly lower than traditional litigation.
Faster Resolution
Without the delays of contested court hearings, most cooperative cases resolve in about 2 to 4 weeks on average, not the months or years a contested divorce can take.
Better for Children
Children benefit most when parents can co-exist civilly. The cooperative process sets that tone from day one.
Dignity Intact
Both parties leave the process with their dignity, and their relationship with their children, intact.
Independent Legal Protection
Each party has their own attorney protecting their interests throughout the process.
Serving
Missoula · The Bitterroot Valley · Western Montana
We serve families throughout Western Montana. Call 406-830-3060 to speak with Misty or Ashley about whether Cooperative Family Law is right for your situation.
Explore Cooperative Family Law
How Cooperative Family Law Works
A step-by-step guide to the cooperative process.
Learn moreCooperative Family Law FAQ
Answers to the most common questions we hear.
Learn moreCooperative Divorce Cost
What does a cooperative divorce actually cost?
Learn moreCooperative Parenting Plan
Building a plan that puts your children first.
Learn moreCooperative vs. Collaborative Divorce
What's the difference, and which is right for you?
Learn moreCooperative Divorce vs. Mediation
Two paths compared: which one fits your situation?
Learn moreCooperative Family Law Podcast
Listen to our podcast: "It Doesn't Have to Be a Battle."
Learn moreIs Cooperative Family Law Right for You?
Call us to talk through your situation. We'll tell you honestly whether the cooperative approach makes sense, and what to expect.